You have a well pump providing water for your home and garden, and you want to automate your lawn irrigation with a sprinkler timer. But there is a catch: most standard sprinkler controllers are designed to operate solenoid valves, not directly control a pump. To bridge that gap, you need a pump start relay. This small device acts as the intermediary, allowing your sprinkler timer to safely turn your well pump on and off at the programmed times. In this guide, we review the Orbit 2 HP Irrigation Pump Start Relay, a top-rated solution for connecting a sprinkler timer to a well pump. Whether you are setting up a new system or upgrading an existing one, this article will help you understand what to look for. For more background on selecting the right pump for your well, check out our complete guide on choosing a well pump.
Pros
- Reliable activation every time, as confirmed by multiple user reviews
- Weatherproof plastic case stands up to outdoor installation
- Easy to wire with standard 24 VAC controller connections
- Works with a variety of pump types and major controller brands
- Compact and lightweight design for flexible mounting
Cons
- Requires basic electrical wiring knowledge, which may be intimidating for some homeowners
- Only rated for cold water use, so it is not suitable for hot water or chemical transfer applications
- Pump is not included, so you need to verify your pump's voltage and horsepower ratings before purchase
The Orbit 57009 Pump Start Relay is a practical solution for anyone who wants their sprinkler system to run automatically from a well, pond, or bore hole. It acts as a bridge between your irrigation controller and your pump, sending a signal that turns the pump on and off at the right times. This product is ideal for homeowners with existing irrigation timers who are tired of manually switching pumps or dealing with separate manual controls.
Standout features include its compatibility with 24 VAC controllers from Orbit, Hydro-Rain, and other major brands, plus its ability to handle both 120 VAC pumps up to 1 HP and 230 VAC pumps up to 2 HP. User reviews highlight how easy it is to install and how reliably it works the first time and every time. One reviewer even replaced a melted relay from another brand with this Orbit unit and reported flawless performance afterward.
The build quality is solid for outdoor use. The ABS plastic enclosure is water-resistant and durable enough to withstand sun, rain, and temperature changes. Surface mounting with screw terminals makes wiring straightforward, and the compact size lets you mount it near the pump or controller without taking up much space.
There are a few limitations to consider. The relay is only rated for cold water irrigation, so it is not intended for hot water or other fluids. It also requires basic electrical knowledge to install safely, and you must verify your pump's voltage and horsepower to ensure compatibility. However, most users find the wiring process manageable, especially with the clear terminals.
Overall, the Orbit 57009 delivers dependable automatic pump activation at a reasonable price. If you have a 24 VAC sprinkler controller and need a simple, reliable way to connect it to your irrigation pump, this relay is a proven choice backed by strong customer satisfaction.
Brand: Orbit | Model: 57009 | Type: Pump Start Relay
Coil Voltage: 24 VAC | Switching Voltage: 120 VAC to 230 VAC | Maximum Pump: 2 HP
Contact Type: Normally Open | Contact Material: Copper | Enclosure: Weather-resistant ABS plastic
Mounting: Surface mount | Connector Type: Screw terminals | Weight: 463 g
Before purchasing, check your irrigation controller to confirm it has a 24 VAC output and a pump start terminal. Also verify your pump's voltage and horsepower to ensure they fall within the relay's ratings (120 VAC up to 1 HP, 230 VAC up to 2 HP).
This relay is designed for cold water irrigation only. It works best with standard sprinkler controllers from Orbit, Hydro-Rain, Rain Bird, Hunter, and other major brands that use 24 VAC signals.
If you are not comfortable with basic electrical wiring, consider hiring a professional electrician or irrigation technician for installation. Always disconnect power before wiring and follow local electrical codes.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Pump Start Relay for Your Sprinkler Timer
Voltage and Power Compatibility
Your sprinkler timer likely operates on 24 VAC, while your well pump may run on 120 V or 230 V. The pump start relay must handle both voltages. The Orbit 2 HP Irrigation Pump Start Relay is rated for 120 VAC pumps up to 1 HP and 230 VAC pumps up to 2 HP, making it versatile for most residential well pumps. Always verify your pump’s voltage and horsepower before purchasing. If your pump exceeds these limits, you may need a heavier-duty relay.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Irrigation equipment often sits outdoors or in damp basements. A durable enclosure protects the relay from moisture, dust, and temperature swings. The Orbit relay features a tough ABS enclosure that stands up to the elements. For a quieter pump setup, see our guide on quiet well pumps if noise is a concern.
Compatibility with Your Sprinkler Controller
Most modern sprinkler controllers have a pump start terminal or a master valve output that sends a 24 VAC signal when a zone is active. The pump start relay connects to these terminals. The Orbit relay is compatible with 24 VAC controllers from Orbit, Hydro-Rain, and other major brands. If you have an older controller, you may need an adapter. For a complete well pump system, consider our well pump kit for home recommendations.
Ease of Installation
Look for a relay with clearly labeled terminals and included mounting hardware. The Orbit relay uses simple screw terminals for the 24 VAC control wires and the pump power wires. Most homeowners can install it in under an hour with basic tools. If you are new to well pump systems, our well pump kit buying guide can help you understand the components.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a reliable way to connect your sprinkler timer to a well pump, the Orbit 2 HP Irrigation Pump Start Relay is a proven choice. It handles both 120 V and 230 V pumps, works with most 24 VAC controllers, and is built to last. For those with a pond or bore hole water source, the same Orbit 2 HP Irrigation Pump Start Relay offers the same dependable synchronization. Whether you are automating a new irrigation system or upgrading an existing one, this relay ensures your pump runs only when needed, saving energy and extending pump life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any sprinkler timer with a well pump? Not directly. Most sprinkler timers output a low-voltage signal (24 VAC) for solenoid valves. To control a well pump, you need a pump start relay that converts that signal into a high-voltage switch. The Orbit pump start relay is designed exactly for this purpose.
How do I wire a pump start relay to my sprinkler controller? Connect the two 24 VAC wires from your controller’s pump or master valve output to the relay’s low-voltage terminals. Then connect the pump power wires to the relay’s high-voltage terminals. Always turn off power before wiring. Refer to the relay’s manual for your specific model.
Will a pump start relay work with a variable speed well pump? Yes, as long as the pump’s voltage and horsepower are within the relay’s rating. The relay simply turns the pump on or off; it does not affect pump speed control. For more on pump types, see our guide on well pumps with soft start for 2026.
What size pump start relay do I need for my well pump? Check your pump’s voltage (120 V or 230 V) and horsepower. The Orbit relay handles up to 1 HP at 120 V and up to 2 HP at 230 V. If your pump exceeds these limits, choose a relay with a higher rating. Many irrigation well pumps fall within this range.
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